"I think we need to look at this [dialogue] as a more long-term process of bringing closer ... interpretations of the history of the Holocaust era in Poland," Czaputowicz said.

Tensions over new rules

In Poland, the new rules are seen as a way of fighting the use of the phrase “Polish death camps” in reference to Nazi German-run extermination camps located in occupied Poland during World War II.

Poles say the phrase, which has often been used by foreign media, distorts history and implies Poland's involvement in the Holocaust.

But critics have accused Poland of trying to whitewash and rewrite history.

During the legislative process, the US State Department warned Poland that the rules could have a "potential impact on the principle of free speech and on our ability to be effective partners".

In a statement posted on its website, the State Department added it was concerned about the repercussions the draft legislation, if enacted in Warsaw, “could have on Poland’s strategic interests and relationships” – including with the its ally the United States and Israel.

The US State Department said: “We encourage Poland to reevaluate the legislation in light of its potential impact on the principle of free speech and on our ability to be effective partners”.

Commentators have said that Israel is concerned the new law could mean penalties for anyone who criticises individual Poles' role in the Holocaust. (vb)